Columbia Plaza
LIMASSOL TOWN CENTRE
COMPLETED 2008
MIXED USE
PHOTO CREDITS - VAKIS ASSOCIATES & COLUMBIA RESTAURANTS LTD
Many times architects driven by their ambition to build a new world, demolish valuable existing buildings, that are not in their opinion architecturally important, in order to make space for more sustainable new structures. This denial of history and the waste of an existing structure cannot be sacrificed in the name of sustainability. The restoration and transformation of the existing building fabric in any city promotes the revitalization of the city centre preserving at the same time the cultural heritage of any society.
This complex was one of the most significant abandoned structures in Limassol’s historic center, and preserving its footprint was both a socially and architecturally responsible decision. Originally built in the 1960s as a showroom for the English car manufacturer Rootes—featuring Hillman, Singer, and Humber cars—the building played an important role in the city’s commercial landscape.
Located on Agiou Andreou Street on the eastern side of Limassol, the showroom thrived until the automotive industry gradually shifted to suburban locations, leaving the building vacant. Its adaptive reuse not only respects its historical presence but also reintegrates it into the urban fabric, contributing to the revitalization of the city centre.
For the restoration of this building complex, we worked with Columbia Hotels and Resorts based in Limassol, who are constantly looking for remarkable places within the city centre in order to expand their services in gastronomy, hospitality and entertainment.
Restaurants, 200 persons venue centre, a live music club/piano bar, shopping and residential areas, all share a central piazza that was created to contain life within, away from the town traffic and noise.
Our office in collaboration with the Municipality of Limassol, civil engineers and town planers managed to conserve the footprints of the existing buildings and minimize the volume of the new additions. We respected and preserved the continuity of the urban block, while simultaneously suggested new modern uses with a contemporary architectural approach, delivering a new commercial centre that is now a reference point to the life of the city centre.
The suggested new mixed uses, including a public square, restaurants, music venues, commercial stores, exhibition venues, parking spaces and residential units, cover the whole range of modern everyday life. The aim of the renovation is to focus on the contemporary individuals and their needs, providing new working positions for hundreds of people.
Emphasizing on the quality of life in the intermediate public space, this project aimed to bring back life to the city centre, which has shifted towards the suburbs and the coastal line.
At the northern edge of the site, a two-storey public parking facility was introduced to accommodate both the needs of the complex and the surrounding neighborhood. Above it, twelve new residential units—comprising two- and three-bedroom maisonettes—were designed to attract young families to the city center, reinforcing a sense of community.
The open space between the buildings has been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly zone, featuring a public passage and an open piazza. This car-free environment has revitalized the area, encouraging walkability and fostering a more vibrant urban lifestyle. With families now settling into the townhouses, their close proximity to the city centre has significantly reduced dependence on cars, promoting a more sustainable way of living.
The design remains true to its context by using only local materials, ensuring a strong connection to its surroundings. The aluminium tubular skin provides shade and insulation, helping to regulate the building’s temperature throughout the seasons. It also adds a subtle texture to the façade, filtering light and softening the structure’s presence.
Inside, wide solid oak timber flooring brings warmth and natural character, complemented by high ceilings that enhance the sense of space. The use of strong colours introduces depth and contrast, creating a balanced and inviting interior that reflects both modern and traditional influences.
